‘A sharp and refreshing take on this elusive, existential play.’
Set on a stark stage in the newly renovated Citizens Theatre in Glasgow, Dominic Hill’s Waiting for Godot did not disappoint. The eerie scenery, designed by Jean Chan, created a timeless place shrouded in mystery, the perfect backdrop for restless existential questioning. Although Samuel Beckett’s play was written in 1948, the complex themes still resonate today.
The play is an exploration of what it means to be human. We join Vladimir, played by George Costigan, and Estragon, by Matthew Kelly, as they wait for the mysterious character Godot, longing for a change in their lives. Who is he? What does he represent? Why are these men so desperate to meet him? Can the longing for Godot be reflected in our own life? As the play unfolds, the audience become part of their journey, joining in their waiting, hoping for their sake that Godot will come.
The strong performance from the cast created a mixture of shock, laughter and bewilderment from the audience. What stood out most was Matthew Kelly and George Costigan’s chemistry and impeccable character work. Their connection suggested a rich history and deep understanding of one another, perhaps solidified through the actors’ decades of friendship off the stage.
Interrupting their waiting was Gbolahan Obisesan’s Pozzo and his slave Lucky, played by Michael Hodgson. The power struggle between them was palpable, uncomfortable and shocking, eerily echoing some of the unsavoury characteristics demonstrated by some in power today.
Throughout the performance Kelly and Costigan caused ripples of laughter through their physical acting and their quick-witted quips, often finding depth stretching well beyond the original text. They create a tension, manipulating the emotions of the audience, causing us to connect with their humanity. Their on-stage relationship had moments of humour, frustration and tenderness, signs of those who have weathered storms and lived life together. Perhaps, really this is a story of a friendship.
As we watch, it feels we are trapped in a painful cycle, holding on for something that may never happen. Nowadays we wait for nothing; almost anything is attainable at the click of a button. The contrasting timelessness on stage lead to moments of discomfort as the pair struggle to attempt to while away time. The number of creative ways the friends come up with to distract them from waiting is both astounding and amusing. We feel their pain, their hunger, their search for something more.
Samuel Beckett’s play is somehow timeless and universal, with many of the themes explored continuing to hold relevance today. In a play where nothing happens, this production left you considering your place in the world. In a world full of uncertainty, Matthew Kelly and George Costigan’s performance of Waiting for Godot still resonates profoundly today.
This show runs at Citizens Theatre, Glasgow, 27th February until 14th March. Tickets here.